Rainy start to week is expected

The Tampa Bay area has been experiencing an abnormally dry September, but that's likely to change over the next few days. Rain and thunderstorms will begin sliding into the area today and should stick around for a while.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say rain chances will be about 50 percent today and about 70 percent tonight. There's an even greater likelihood of rain Tuesday. Rain chances will dip to about 20 percent by Wednesday.

So far this month, Tampa has received just 1.42 inches of rain, far below the normal 6.23 inches. The dry weather has been caused by high pressure lingering over the area, said NWS meteorologist John McMichael.

High temperatures will be in the mid 80s for the next few days, though the rain and humidity and make it feel warmer.

The region should dry out after the rain passes in the middle of the week, leaving behind comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

Highs later in the week should be in the mid 80s while lows should dip into the high 60s.

There is a reason why the air in Tampa Bay is filled with playoff talk. If Thursday night's 12-8 Bucs preseason win over the Jaguars is any indication, it's also going to be filled with footballs thrown by quarterback Jameis Winston.